Emily Eilers addresses the challenges of communicating the farm and food story with consumers while facing the narratives inherent when only two percent of the U.S. population grows our food.
Source: Nebraska Farmer, February 19, 2025. Link.
Commentary
Eiler’s article caused me to think about the number of social media posts I saw from cow-calf producers during the recent Arctic cold snap in the Midwest. It has been a minute since my everyday activities included calving in a storm, chopping holes in ponds, busting drifts to get hay to horses or cattle, scoop drifts out of kennels and related chores. My social media contacts who share photos or videos now keep me connected to that time.
Realizing the value I receive from these posts, my thoughts took off. Regardless of the species or animal health segment, animal health pros can be effective third-party advocates by simply sharing or commenting on social media posts they receive.
Consider the grassroots exposure and potential it provides when sharing a post with comments to generate interest, educate, remind and call to action.”
INSIGHTS: Veterinary teams might choose to share a photo of a dog or cat that came in for an annual visit or paw injury as an example. Pet care businesses could gain exposure by posting staff interacting with individual pets or play groups. Photos or clips of working cattle or floating a horse’s teeth can also paint a picture of the importance of animal stewardship and wellness care.